Welcome to 5th Grade Orchestra

(Please check with your vendor for the following materials when you rent your instrument)

All Students:

1. Instrument (clean, well-maintained, properly sized)

a. This should also include a bow in good condition, a functioning case, rosin, and a cleaning cloth.
b. Renting from a music store is best. Equity will build toward the eventual purchase of an
instrument, and small instruments can be traded in as needed. Damage is also often covered
by the store.
c. Let us know if you plan to purchase an instrument, so we can help you make a good decision.
Instruments available for low prices online often come un-assembled and cost $200+ to make
playable!
d. There are a few instruments available through the school district for a low fee. These are for
students who truly cannot afford an instrument any other way. These instruments are only
available during 5th grade, and those who use them must plan to get an instrument by the end
of the year so that your student will have something to practice during the summer before 6th
grade. While we are happy to provide an instrument to someone in need, please be thoughtful
about going this route.
2. Rosin (Usually included with store instrument rental)
3. Cleaning Cloth (Usually included with instrument, but can use an old T-shirt or cloth)
4. String Basics - Book 1 (Terry Shade and Jeremy Woolstenhulme)
5. Folding Music Stand

Violin/Viola Students Only:

1. Shoulder Rest (Everest or Kun Brands)

Cello/Bass Students Only:

1. Rock Stop (Cello/Bass) or Seat Strap(Cello Only)

Optional (Highly Recommended!) Items for Everyone:

1. A Tuner/Metronome- These devices are available as FREE APPS on many Smart Devices.
2. A Spare Set of Strings (Keep in the case)

We understand that this process can be overwhelming. Please contact me at any time with
questions. While there is a sizeable up-front investment involved in playing a stringed instrument,
most materials are used throughout your student’s string education.

If you have any questions about locating, renting, or purchasing an instrument, please let me know.

Kyle Detrick
wkdetrick@olatheschools.org